Edward Merritt Obituary

Merritt, Edward "Bruce" Born April 3, 1951 in North Carolina. He was one of eight children. His older sisters regularly beat him up, put him in dresses, and then forced him to walk to the drugstore to buy their Kotex and cigarettes. After graduation from high school he went on to lead a life of luxury in the United States Air Force. After excaping from the government he spent most of his life as a mechanic, husband, and father. Bruce Merritt never met a stranger, and in many ways was stranger than most. He is survived by one daughter, two grand- children, two ex-wives, unpaid taxes, and many loyal loving friends. Services will be held on Tuesday, September 23rd at 2:00pm. Eastgate LBJ @ Northwest Highway 972-270-6116 www.eastgatefuneralhome.com

Published by Dallas Morning News on Sep. 21, 2008.
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Memories and Condolences
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Bruce, i didn't know you, but I think you should meet my grandpa. His name is Roy and ya'll will get along just fine. Save a seat for us.

heather williams

October 24, 2008

Daddy, although you are not near you will always live on in my heart. I am the girl you made me, and I will try my hardest to be someone you can be proud of. Your patience and love will never be forgotten. You have taught me more than I ever imagined. I love you.

Melissa

October 21, 2008

Bruce will live on forever because of a very clever obit. My best regards to his family.

Tammy Swofford

tammy Swofford

October 17, 2008

My sincere condolences to those he left behind.

But, my first thought upon reading his obit, is "What a GREAT sense of humor" his family has. So, of course, it's safe to asume he did too. I know, with a GREAT sense of humor a person usually has a Fantastically fun and interesting life. I'm sure he did what Shakespeare wrote in King Lear, "Life is an occasion. Rise up to it."

I thank your for sharing this wonder writing and letting me glimpse, even just for this millisec into a man well loved.

Regards,

Patty

Patty Garry

October 15, 2008

Fried chicken, collards and cat head biscuts, sitting on the bank of the river shootin off guns. Beautiful Sun shine and Jim Croce on the radio singing " Time In A Bottle". The only thing better than that is a spot on your cloud. (Save me a seat). I'll Love You Forever Friend!!!

October 14, 2008

I guess I must have said something too wrong in my first so. There has been a white wreath on my front porch with the porch light on so people will know I have lost someone dear to me. My big brother. Even though you ate green goddess dressing on your eggs that still is (Yuck) I love you so. I will remember you asking mama not what was for supper just if there was enough of it. Fried chicken and collards were your favorite. Not to mention biscuits. Sleep in peace. Your little sister Susie

Ava Whaley

October 8, 2008

My condolences to the family for your loss. And such a great obituary.
I collect unusual obits and this will go in my file. What a caring and loving family. So sad that you had to give him back to the Lord, but great for him!
Our prayers are with you.
Linda
Mineola, TX

Linda Bullard

October 7, 2008

Ok I am his 1st cousin from NC and know this obit. is true!! BUT...he also saved the danzles in distress!! I was one of them. He saved me from my brothers that aggravated me. May you rest in peace and know you were loved in NC. Bruce is survived by his three sisters and one brother also.

Pamela Sanderson Sparks

October 6, 2008

My brother Richard died 1 yr ago on Sept 23 2007 at 56 yrs old. I hope he and Bruce find each other on the other side. Keep those great loving memories of Bruce to ease the pain of your loss.

Carole

October 6, 2008

Great obit. I hope mine is as good someday. The honesty is refreshing. Way to go. I think all sisters treat their brothers bad me and my sisters were mean to our brothers too.

Judy Bramblett

October 4, 2008

RIP OLD PARTNER FROM VAN ALSTYNE TEXAS
THOSE MEAN SISTERS

LAINE SCHUMANN

October 4, 2008

A lovely honest Obit. Such a refeshing memory instead of the political correct nonsense we usually see.
David Cartwright
Ontario Canada

David Cartwright

October 4, 2008

This is one of the best obituaries I have ever read. Nothing like a great obit for an obviously great man.

Dennie Rennow

October 2, 2008

Kudos to Bruce for the way his lived his life, and kudos to his family for remembering him in such a wonderful way. I never met Bruce, but I'll look him up when I get to Heaven. He shouldn't be hard to find. I'll just follow the sound of the laughter.

Guy Wheatley

October 2, 2008

Well, Bruce, have a nice journey. Hope I get a chance to meet you on the other side.

Paul Baillio

October 2, 2008

I wish I had met this man. A truer God's man I have never seen until now. Thank you for sharing this with us.

Connie H.

October 1, 2008

I wish I had married a man with his sense of humor. What a great life he must have had. Go with God, Bruce!
Ginger

Ginger Patterson

October 1, 2008

Bruce's legacy has made it through the internet all the way to Kansas. What a terrific man and family. Bless all of you.

Cindy Rowland

October 1, 2008

Atta Boy Bruce: this is the way we should leave this world, owing taxes. Proud of you. J.W. Mayfield, Bedford, Tx

J.W. Mayfield

October 1, 2008

I didn't know Bruce Merritt but after reading this I wish I had. He was obviously a good man and will be missed. My sympathies for your loss.

October 1, 2008

Blessings to all of Bruce's family..what a wonderful sense of humor he had (and forgiveness, too, I imagine).I'm afraid I must have been one of his sister's best friends because I did the same thing to my little brother, only he had to bring me a soft drink now and then while I lazed in bed reading a book...
Way to go, Bruce!

anon

September 30, 2008

To Melissa,

If this obit is any indication of your fathers true personality, then I hope
you inheritied a part of him. He had
to be a very caring person and I'm sure you will miss him. Just knowing
how many people he touched after his death with this wonderful obit should leave a smile on your face forever. God bless you and your family.

Ellen Furgerson

September 30, 2008

Bbruce and I share the same birthday...I'm sure we were separated at birth based upon his obit. C U on the other side, bro...
Portland, OR

September 30, 2008

Well, we are spotting a new trend in obituaries...truth...about the really important traits our loved ones brought to our lives. Humor, love, selflessness, delight, imagination...all the things that make our days and nights way better. Lucky family - and a lovely family. Blessing to all.

Susie John

September 30, 2008

Indeed this is a wonderfully remembered man. Having great relationships with ex's and vice versa says something about a person. I know you were proud and loved your dad, grandfather, husband very much. I know you will miss him, but what a wonderful legacy you have to return to an read often.

Kathleen Willbanks

September 30, 2008

Wish I had known you. There are not enough free souls in this world and now we are one less.

lyn buerger

September 30, 2008

Damn.....goooooooooood job! Keep up the good work from beyond. You are 95% of all men's hero.

Chris Caver

September 29, 2008

Sorry to see such a wonderfully spirited man go. My condolences to the entire family.

Beverly Denny

September 29, 2008

Wonderful obit, everyone should have such a good outlook on life.

Sally Pavia

September 29, 2008

I happened to come across this obit today. I never knew this person or his family. This obit truly made my day and wish I could have been luck to know such a man with a great sense of humor.

anon

September 29, 2008

Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside throughly used up. totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming......
WOW......WHAT A RIDE!!!!!
Author unknown

September 28, 2008

I did'nt know Ed, but his Obit was forwarded to me by a friend with the comment "best obituary I ever saw". What a wonderful sense of humor!

September 28, 2008

Thanks for sharing this wonderful man. It reminds me of my brothers who have all passed. These words remind me of the joy and blessing of their life and not the sadness of missing them. Thanks for the refreshing reminder.

Judy Michaels

September 28, 2008

I usually read the obits every week and like to find ones that are inspiring, or remind me of better ways to live my own life. When i saw this on Sunday...it made me smile. I have read thousands, yet this one, probably the best one I have ever read. Life--after death.

leah cole

September 27, 2008

I just read "Bruce's" obit. I have been involved in the funeral home business for over 47 years, and I have never seen such a wonderful obit. I hope he meets my daddy in heaven, but then they have forever to find each other! Bruce sounds just like my father. My mother is with me now and I have read the obit to her. She said the same thing! Gods Blessings to you. I wish I could have played for his service!

Louise Chamberlain

September 27, 2008

Had to have been a great guy...my condolences to the family. May he look down on us and laugh because sounds like thats what he liked best!

C. Howell

September 26, 2008

Bruce,
I was having a real bad day until I read your story. You made me chuckle and reminded me that life is short and we shouldn't get too wrapped up in the small stuff... and in the end, it's all small stuff. So happy trails my friend.

Mike Stock

September 26, 2008

Bruce...save some room at the table! I'm glad to have a good friend send me this notice. Its a GREAT perspective on the short ride we al lhave here. Live, love and eat dessert first!

"Rock-n-Roll" Joe LaBella

September 26, 2008

Yes, it has made it to Lubbock, and I am sending it on to so many people who would love to see it. My mom died at 54 and I feel for his daughter, as it seems he was a great guy. Life isn't fair to those of us left behind, but the only thing to get you by now is the idea that he has been blessed. He is the lucky one. Taxes is just one problem in this world. The BEST GO FIRST. And they are LUCKY. Just keep telling yourself that. IT WILL TAKE a good while to feel better again. My heart aches for you now though. Just try to stay strong and keep going. I will pass this obit on to many people and it will brighten their day!

Chrystal Davis

September 26, 2008

I want to Thank All of you that have left messages so far. I was Bruce's 1st ex-wife, and yes he was full of humor. When he talked he drew pictures very well. He was a great Father and Husband and over the years became a vey good friend. I will miss our weekly talks and the "Good Night Sweety" he always said. We have a beautiful Daughter that has become a smart and beautiful Woman and Mother. We are very proud of her! Burce, I will always love you and miss you dearly.
And, Yes The Last Dance Is Yours.
Yours forever in my heart.
Rhonda Murrow, SC

Rhonda Murrow

September 25, 2008

Thank you big brother for sharing part of my life. You left too early but God was ready. I know the lives you touched are many and all proud to have known you. My memories are good ones. See you again!

Jan White

September 25, 2008

Bet he slid into the gates of heaven shouting "woo, woo what a ride". What a better world this would be if we all had Bruce's outlook.

C A Hay

September 25, 2008

RIP Bruce and comfort to your family and friends.

Jay

September 25, 2008

Excellent tribute from a loving family member. I guess some of us have to pass over to be famous. This is your 15 minutes. I'll bet Bruce is smiling down at the rest of us right now.

Chris McVean

September 25, 2008

I love this! The best Obit I've seen in years. What a great Man! God Bless your family.

Melissa

September 25, 2008

R.I.P. and I am glad that your family has such a sense of humor! What a man!!!
Still, I am sorry for your family's loss.

Michele DeSalme

September 25, 2008

My son died about 8 years ago, I am sure you are having a great time with him now, he would have loved an obit such as yours, Bruce. He had sisters also and gave them curb service everyday--he took them to school, pulled up over the curb and stuck his head out the window to announce their arrival. There is a special place for you. Thanks for a good week just to know you existed & heaven is having a special party. I send my thoughts and prayers to your family and hope they have a lot of memories to keep you alive in their hearts. You brought joy and hope to so many hearts. Thank you, Bruce!

Donna

September 25, 2008

The best obit I've ever read. I wish I could have had the opportunity to meet you Bruce. You sound like one hell of a guy and you're sure to be missed.

Dave Moyer

September 25, 2008

This obit put a smile on my face. Bet you were an awesome guy, with an awesome family!

Amanda

September 25, 2008

This obit is hillarious! What an incredible personality this man must have been...someone who saw beauty and humor in life where others probably didn't. What a blessing to go through life with that kind of outlook!

Lisa

September 24, 2008

You set the Bar high!!!
Sure were a man I would have liked to know well.
I have a new role model!!
Have fun where ever you are :)

GBB

gary Bland

September 24, 2008

Melissa thank you for allowing me to celebrate your father's life. I have preached many funerals, and I have read many obituaries. However, I have never seen so many responses to an obit as yours. Hebrews 11:4 says, "Though he is dead, he still speaks," and this is true about Bruce. May we learn to not take life and people too seriously like Bruce did. Life is so short. May we live like this is our last day on earth, but plan like we are going to be here 1,000 years. May you and your family continue to find support and strength in your faith, your family and your friends. God bless.

Rev. Jim Burk

September 24, 2008

Bruce I am sure that you were worthy of such light-hearted Obit. I hope you have found peace!

CG Ingram

September 24, 2008

Hmm.... What to say about Bruce? I only met the man a few time's. When we were in the same room we usually just sat and watched T.V., neither of us feeling uncomfortable or feeling the need to make small talk. I felt I knew him though through his Daughter and his Grandson's original and unique personalities. Here's to you Bruce, I hope your having a great time in the next life.

Keith Chapman

September 24, 2008

Rest In Peace Bruce! You sound like you were one heck of a man! Someone I'm sure I would have been proud to have had as one of my friends.

Melinda Banks

September 24, 2008

Bruce - I never met you, but got a hoot out of your Obit. Your family & friends are luckier & richer for knowing you. Condolences to your friends & Family.

Jim Jeffrey

September 24, 2008

Apparently Bruce lived life to the fullest! His loving, loyal friends and family will most undoubtedly miss him. Enjoy the memories of his humor!

Patti

September 24, 2008

Bruce, your legacy will still endure as evidenced by this obiturary. Thank you for making life more enjoyable by making all of us smile and laugh. You are a true American!

Stephen Maple

September 24, 2008

Bruce - you must have been a hoot in Life and you're probably chuckling right now! Heaven is a little lighter today! God love whomever wrote your obituary - what a friend!

TRISH COWAN

September 24, 2008

I am so sorry I never got to meet this man. The obituary made me smile, and I'm betting he would have given me reason to smile if I'd met him.

My condolences to those who did know and love him.

Naphtalia

September 24, 2008

Where ever you are Bruce, you're are still making an impact on the living and keeping them laughing.

bb

September 24, 2008

Bruce was a wonderful man. I read his obit last night during my monologue.

Jay Leno

September 24, 2008

Bruce's obituary was read on a local radio station in my town this morning when I was waking up! He must have lived a full, interesting life filled with fun and humor! I am so glad that I got to hear about this since I lived in Richardson/ Dallas years ago! Good luck and best wishes to Bruce's family! I know that he will be greatly missed! Sincerely S. Lawrence, Batesville, AR

Susan Lawrence

September 23, 2008

Way ta go Bruce. Leave em laughing!

Richard James

September 23, 2008

I enjoyed reading that Bruce. You sound like a fun dude. Hope to meet you in heaven.

Agnes Ellis

September 23, 2008

What a gem of a man Bruce must have been. Those of us who never knew him really missed out. One can only hope to bring smiles to people in life and he has brought that to so many already in his afterlife. I feel sure that the memory of him will live on forever. My sincere condolences to his family.

S. C.

September 23, 2008

Boy, I sure wish I had known Bruce! I bet he was a member of the prestigious Sam's Club too!
His obituary has caused me to see life in a new way...I am going to take it less seriously and look for the fun! Thanks Bruce!

September 23, 2008

What a guy...what an obit. Heaven has to be a better place because ole Bruce has arrived. This world is a bit less joyous now that Bruce & his humor have departed. RIP. Condolences to Bruce's family & Bless You for posting the obit Bruce wanted.

Michele Lyon

September 23, 2008

Wow, what a great Obit. Don't know you but you must have been a blast to hang with.
God Bless Bruce!!!

Mike Weber

September 23, 2008

Old Bruce was truly a one of a kind guy. I'm sure he will be missed.

Keith Wagner

September 23, 2008

I hope that Bruce penned this obit himself. It is wonderfully funny.

Chris

September 23, 2008

I don't know any of you, but I have to say Wow! I only hope my friends and family think this much of me when it's my time. What a wonderfully joyful and loving tribute. Mr. Merritt, you did it right, rest in peace til the next time. To your family, I am so sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing.

R Lee

September 23, 2008

I don't know you either, but the world is NOT better off without you here, I'm sure of that.

Happy Trails, Bruce.

Debi M

September 23, 2008

What a great person he must have been - with such a wonderful family. I am sorry for his passing. I heard about it on WBAP radio.

Jann

September 23, 2008

I don't know you but I'm sure you brought smiles to many of your loved ones and with this obit spread that joy to many more. Thank you.

Lynn V

September 23, 2008

Some people live to be 100 and never make the impact you seemed to have made. Can't wait to meet you on the other side! I know just how to find you.....I'll just listen for the laughter!!

Toni Stroud

September 23, 2008

Good ol' Bruce, You got the last laugh and we thank you for sharing it with us. Rest in peace, buddy.

sHugamom Smith

September 22, 2008

Ben Franklin, on the death of his brother-in-law wrote a condolence letter to his sister. In it he said that he believed that heaven was a big party and everyone you ever loved or liked is at the party or will be attending the party. There will be wonderful music, lots of dancing and the finest of foods. He ended the letter by saying when you die it means your table is "ready".
Wouldn't we all would love to peek in and see what's happening at the Merritt party tonight? I bet they are having a rockin socking good time now that Bruce has arrived!!!

Naomi

September 22, 2008

What a wonderful man he msut have been, the world will miss his humor. This obit was read on 1310 the Ticket in Dallas and I know all P1's loved it.

God Bless His Family and Friends

P1 Day 1

P1 Day1

September 22, 2008

This obit made me smile and brought a tear to my eye. This shows not only you were a joy on this earth but that you made such an impact on your love ones that they should honor your request and publish a wonderful obit. God Bless your family and may you rest in peace.

September 22, 2008

How very refreshing; a true celebration of a wacky life! May he rest in humor and peace!

Linda Hodges

September 22, 2008

What a wonderful and refreshing attitude towards death! Hope heaven is everything you hoped it was, with laughs every day.

Gloria Fredeker

September 22, 2008

How wonderful to know that he was such a down to earth guy that his obituary wasn't just the same old stuff you normally read. It's good to hear that he had a life and enjoyed it to the fullest.

God bless the family and may each of us live our lives to the fullest.

Ambre

September 22, 2008

We will miss you. Hurry back.

Tom

September 22, 2008

Paying respects to one I've never known, but glad to now know of you.
hope you're enjoying your relaxation in peace resting among the angels and those pesky sisters

September 22, 2008

This is the funniest obit i have ever read! I wish I knew you!

Kerry

September 22, 2008

I don't know who you are but I'll bet you were a funny guy. RIP

Jay Le

September 22, 2008

I am dedicating this post to Bruce's daughter Melissa. You are a wonderful friend and I miss you dearly!!!! Your father Bruce had to have been a wonderful man considering how amazing you turned out!!! Just by reading his obit, I can tell he had a CRAZY life such as yours!!! To all that knew Bruce and his loved ones, you will all be in my thoughts!!!

Winona Barnes

September 22, 2008

I would bet Bruce and Will Rogers had a lot in common. Good luck on your journey, Bruce and peace out

glenn

September 22, 2008

RIP

andrew Bell

September 22, 2008

Ditto...stay hard! You will be greatly missed by all of us!!!

kim

September 22, 2008

Ann Yeargin

September 22, 2008

Bruce,
Thanks for your wheels off life. You made me giggle this morning.
Stay hard Bruce.

Ticket P1

September 22, 2008

RIP

jeff johnson

September 22, 2008

Hang in there Bruce, No more Kotex trips for you. Stay Hard Brother

Sweet Travo

September 22, 2008

Strange obit! It was read during Muse in the News by Gordon Keith on the Ticket just now. Had to pay my respects!

Ralph

September 22, 2008

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